Get weird with Antimatter

The weird, wonderful and truly original will be taking over Victoria during the Antimatter [Media Art] festival, from October 14 to 29.

This 19th annual festival will see more than 150 multimedia pieces by artists from 30 countries, shown in a variety of locations throughout the city, and all either free or pay what you can. Audiences can take in film and video screenings, both short and feature length, along with live performances and public installations.

“This gives you a real strong cross-section of some of the best work from around the world,” said Todd Eacrett, festival director.

A focus in recent years has been to increase the number and quality of live performances. These unique experiences often include film elements, but are supplemented with live music, dance or movement.

Among those performing this year is San Francisco’s Jeremy Rourke, who does live animation and music, Vancouver’s Alex MacKenzie, who does a 16mm film performance with live image manipulation, and Sophie Trudeau, who has worked with the band Godspeed You! Black Emperor.

Advancements in technology and mediums have kept the festival fresh over its near two decade span and continue to influence the artists, and art, in edgy and unique ways. But the core of the art, and of the intention of the festival, has not changed: the expression of creative and talented individuals.

“It’s their own. You’re talking about completely independent work,” Eacrett said. “This is the work and vision of an individual, as opposed to a watered-down distillation from a corporation or committee.”

Antimatter isn’t just for those looking to make an evening of it either, and Eacrett touts its accessibility as one of its quintessential features. Many of the public installations are in downtown galleries and other locations open during the day, meaning people can take in a little modern art on their lunch break, or pop in somewhere while out for a walk.